Different is pronounced DIF-rənt (IPA /ˈdɪfərənt/). Reduce the middle vowel to a schwa — 'DIF-rent' in two beats works.
IPA: /ˈdɪfərənt/
Syllables: DIF · rənt
Common ESL mistake: Learners over-articulate the middle 'e' saying 'DIF-fer-ent' clearly.
Tip: Reduce the middle vowel to a schwa — 'DIF-rent' in two beats works.